Cinnamon Roll
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day.
Cinnamon rolls are a beloved treat enjoyed around the world, often associated with cozy breakfasts and family gatherings. This recipe brings together the classic flavors of cinnamon, sugar, and butter, wrapped in a fluffy dough that’s easy to make and even easier to eat!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich cinnamon flavor that fills your kitchen with warmth.
- Soft, pillowy texture that melts in your mouth.
- Perfectly sweetened with a creamy glaze for that extra indulgence.
The Perfect Breakfast Treat
Cinnamon rolls have a special place in the hearts of breakfast lovers everywhere. Their soft, pillowy texture combined with the rich aroma of cinnamon makes them the perfect start to any day. Whether enjoyed with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of orange juice, these rolls are sure to bring warmth and comfort to your morning routine.
What sets homemade cinnamon rolls apart from store-bought varieties is the love and care that goes into each roll. From kneading the dough to watching them rise, the process becomes a delightful ritual that enhances the flavor and texture of the final product. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling a freshly baked batch out of the oven!
Customizing Your Rolls
One of the best aspects of making cinnamon rolls at home is the ability to customize them to your taste. You can easily add in ingredients like raisins, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for a unique twist on this classic treat. If you prefer a nutty crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts into the filling for added texture and flavor.
For those who enjoy experimenting with flavors, consider swapping out the traditional cinnamon for cardamom or nutmeg. These spices can provide a delightful variation that keeps your taste buds excited. The versatility of the filling allows you to create your own signature cinnamon roll that can become a family favorite.
Storing and Reheating
If you find yourself with leftover cinnamon rolls (which is rare but can happen!), storing them properly is key to maintaining their deliciousness. Allow the rolls to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each roll tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer!
When you’re ready to enjoy a roll, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This will revive their soft texture and warm, gooey filling, making them taste as fresh as the day they were baked.
Ingredients
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Mix all ingredients well to form a dough, then let it rise!
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Knead and Rise
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Prepare the Filling
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
Roll and Fill
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with nuts if desired. Roll the dough tightly into a log.
Cut and Bake
Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal slices and place in a greased baking dish. Let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
Glaze and Serve
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls and enjoy!
Serve warm for the best experience!
Tips for Success
To achieve the perfect cinnamon roll, it’s crucial to ensure your ingredients are at the right temperature. The milk should be warm but not hot, as excessive heat can kill the yeast. Similarly, make sure your butter is melted but not too hot when mixing it into the dough, as this can also affect yeast activation.
Kneading the dough is another vital step. Proper kneading develops the gluten in the flour, giving your rolls that desirable chewy texture. If the dough is too sticky, sprinkle a little more flour during kneading, but be cautious not to add too much, as this can make the rolls dense.
Serving Suggestions
These homemade cinnamon rolls are fantastic on their own, but you can elevate the experience further by serving them with a side of fresh fruit or a drizzle of maple syrup. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can transform them into a decadent dessert.
For a festive touch, consider adding a sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar on top before serving. This not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds an extra layer of flavor to each bite.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture may be denser, and you may need to adjust the liquid slightly.
→ How do I store leftover cinnamon rolls?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze cinnamon rolls?
Yes, freeze them before baking. Thaw and let rise before baking as directed.
→ What can I substitute for eggs?
You can use flax eggs or applesauce as a substitute for eggs.
Cinnamon Roll
Indulge in the warm, gooey goodness of homemade cinnamon rolls. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet treat any time of day.
Created by: Natalie Briggs
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 rolls
What You'll Need
Dough
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) instant yeast
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk, warmed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
Filling
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 3 tablespoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
In a large bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. In a separate bowl, mix the warm milk, melted butter, and eggs.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until a dough forms.
Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon until well combined.
Once the dough has risen, roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle. Spread the filling evenly over the dough, then sprinkle with nuts if desired. Roll the dough tightly into a log.
Cut the rolled dough into 12 equal slices and place in a greased baking dish. Let rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 25 minutes or until golden brown.
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over warm cinnamon rolls and enjoy!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g